Packaged Family Reserve

If you’re looking for an experience that goes beyond the typical tequila tasting, the Packaged Family Reserve tour offers a hands-on glimpse into the art of tequila production. Organized by Experiencias Jose Cuervo, this 2-hour adventure combines history, craftsmanship, and personalized tastings in the heart of Tequila, Mexico. It’s particularly attractive for those interested in understanding what makes tequila special, not just sipping from a glass but witnessing the process firsthand.

One thing we love about this tour is its interactive element—you get to fill your own bottle directly from the barrel, making it a memorable keepsake. Plus, the private Reserva de la Familia cava experience, where you can enjoy extra-old tequila straight from the barrel, promises an intimate peek into premium tequila craftsmanship. That personal connection to the product makes this tour stand out.

A possible drawback is the relatively short duration; at just two hours, some visitors might wish for a deeper dive into the complex world of tequila or more tasting options. Still, for those seeking a focused, authentic experience in a small group, it hits the right notes.

This tour suits travelers who love hands-on experiences, are curious about tequila’s origins, or want a meaningful souvenir to take home. Families, couples, and small groups will find the intimate setting particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Authentic hands-on experience: Fill your own bottle directly from the barrel, making it a unique keepsake.
• Educational focus: Learn about tequila production step-by-step, from agave cooking to aging.
• Small-group intimacy: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Premium tasting: Sample four traditional tequilas and enjoy a private reserve experience.
• Convenient location: Starts in downtown Tequila, easy to reach with nearby public transportation.
• Cost-effective: Offers a memorable, high-value experience for just over $215 per person.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Fabrica La Rojena

Your journey begins at Fabrica La Rojena, a historic tequila factory with more than a century of tradition. Upon arrival, you’re welcomed into a dedicated room where you’ll watch an introductory video about the tequila-making process. This initial step is quite helpful—think of it as setting the stage for everything else you’ll see and taste. The video covers history and processes, offering a quick primer that makes later explanations more meaningful.

Following the video, your guide takes over, leading you through a step-by-step tour of the factory. You’ll see firsthand how the cooked agave is processed—an essential stage that influences the flavor of the final product. The guide explains each step in detail, sharing insights about why certain methods are used and how they affect the taste.

As part of the tour, you’ll sample cooked agave, white tequila, rested, and aged varieties. These tastings help you understand the subtle differences, which is especially helpful for those new to tequila or enthusiasts eager to learn more. The tasting room at La Rojena is well-designed to educate, allowing you to compare these different styles side-by-side.

The Private Reserva de la Familia Experience

The highlight of this tour is the visit to the private cava of Reserva de la Familia. Here, you get a rare chance to enjoy a glass of extra-old tequila straight from the barrel—not something you typically find in standard tastings. It’s a privileged look into the aging process and the craftsmanship behind premium tequila, making this section particularly memorable. The experience is intimate and educational, giving you a sense of what goes into producing a luxury product.

The Tasting Session

Back in the tasting room, you’ll participate in an educational session tasting four different traditional line tequilas. The guide explains nuances and helps you appreciate the differences. This isn’t just a quick sip—it’s an opportunity to develop your palate and understand the craftsmanship involved.

Final Note: End at the Same Meeting Point

The tour concludes back at the original meeting spot—José Cuervo # 73 in downtown Tequila—making it convenient for further exploration or returning to your accommodation. The scheduled start time of 1:00 pm fits well into a day of sightseeing.

What to Expect and What Not to Expect

This tour is quite focused. It’s ideal if you’re eager to see how tequila is made, taste different styles, and walk away with a unique bottle. The small group size means you’ll receive tailored attention, and the fact that admission is included simplifies planning.

However, at just two hours, it’s not a comprehensive deep-dive into the entire tequila region or culture. If you’re looking for a full-day adventure or extensive wine-like tastings, this might feel a bit brief. Still, the value comes from the hands-on barrel filling and the private reserve glimpse.

The Experience and Its Value

When considering the $215.24 price per person, think of it as paying for a personalized, educational experience rather than just a tasting. You’re learning—really learning—about the process, not just sampling drinks. The inclusion of a filling-your-own bottle makes it a special souvenir, while the private reserve experience offers a peek into high-end tequila production that many visitors miss.

Some reviews from others highlight how the experience helps with understanding the nuances of tequila, particularly through tasting different types and the educational approach taken. The intimate size (max 10 travelers) ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and your guide’s explanations add depth to what might otherwise be a simple tasting.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Arrive at the meeting point a few minutes early to ensure a smooth start.
• Dress comfortably—factory tours can involve some walking and standing.
• If you’re interested in taking home a personalized bottle, confirm that filling from the barrel is included in your tour.
• Since the tour ends back at the start location, plan your next steps accordingly—Tequila town has other attractions and eateries worth exploring.
• Keep in mind the tour is non-refundable, so make sure your schedule aligns before booking.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who values authentic, small-group experiences and wants to understand tequila from the inside out, this tour is a good fit. It’s especially suited for curious travelers who enjoy hands-on activities and personalized attention. Families with older children or teens might appreciate the educational aspect, but very young children may not find the factory process engaging.

For those seeking a luxurious, high-tech tasting experience, this tour might seem modest. But for travelers who want a balanced, genuine glimpse into tequila craftsmanship, it hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but since the experience involves tastings and factory visits, it’s best suited for older children and adults.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 2 hours, including the factory visit, tastings, and private reserve experience.

Is transportation included?
No, but the meeting point is near public transportation, making it accessible without additional transfers.

What is included in the price?
Admission, the guided factory tour, tastings of four traditional tequilas, and the private cava visit with a glass of extra-old tequila.

Can I fill my own bottle?
Yes, part of the experience involves filling your bottle directly from the barrel, creating a personalized souvenir.

Are the tastings educational?
Absolutely, guides explain the differences between various tequila styles, helping you develop your palate.

What if I want to cancel?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at José Cuervo # 73 in downtown Tequila.

Is the price worth it?
Considering the personalized activities and high-quality tastings, many find it a worthwhile investment in their tequila journey.

Final Thoughts

The Packaged Family Reserve tour offers a genuine, engaging glimpse into the world of tequila production, perfect for travelers who want more than just a tasting. The combination of a hands-on barrel filling, educational insights, and access to exclusive reserve tequila makes it a memorable experience. While it’s not a lengthy or exhaustive tour, it delivers on authenticity and intimacy—ideal for those curious to understand the craft behind one of Mexico’s most iconic spirits.

Best suited for small groups and curious learners, this experience offers real value for those who want to connect with tequila’s heritage on a personal level. If you appreciate craftsmanship, enjoy tasting different styles, and value unique souvenirs, this tour should be on your list.

In essence, this tour provides an authentic, educational, and memorable look at tequila making—an experience that’s both fun and informative for anyone eager to go beyond the usual tasting.